Most people do not know how to write a cover letter that works. They restate the resume in paragraph form, include a line about being passionate about the industry, and end with “I look forward to hearing from you.” Then they wonder why nobody responds.

A cover letter that actually gets read is different. It is short, specific, and written like a real person wrote it for this specific job — not copied from a template. Here is how.

How to Write a Cover Letter: Open with Something Real

The first sentence determines whether the rest gets read. Do not open with “I am writing to apply for the position of…” That is how every other letter starts. Instead, open with the one specific thing about this role or this company that made you want to apply.

“When I read that your team is expanding operations across the Midwest, it aligned directly with the work I have spent the last four years doing at…” This is a real opening. It signals preparation and genuine interest — and it makes the reader want to continue.

Make One Argument, Not Five

A common mistake is trying to fit the entire resume into the cover letter. This produces a list — and a list is easy to skim and set aside. A strong cover letter makes one central argument: here is the specific value I bring to this role, and here is the evidence.

Pick the single most relevant thing about your background and build a short, clear case around it. One well-made argument is more persuasive than five generic ones — every time.

Show That You Know Something About the Company

Reference something specific about the company — a recent initiative, a challenge the industry is facing that they are positioned to solve, or something from their culture that matches your values. A single sentence of genuine research is enough to show you are not sending the same letter to 30 employers.

This specificity also helps you. If you cannot find one specific thing worth mentioning about a company, that is a signal worth paying attention to. It might mean this is not actually a place you want to work.

Keep It Under 300 Words

A cover letter does not need to be long to be effective. Three short paragraphs — an opening hook, your central argument, a closing sentence — is enough. The goal is to make the reader want to look at your resume, not to replace it.

Edit ruthlessly. Remove every sentence that does not add information. Remove every adjective that describes you rather than shows something about you. If a sentence starts with “I am a highly motivated professional,” delete it and replace it with something that demonstrates motivation instead.

A great cover letter is a short, specific, confident piece of writing. It tells the employer who you are, what you can do for them, and why you chose them. If you are working with a CPG Incorporated recruiter, they can advise you on exactly what a specific employer is looking for and how to position yourself. Reach out today.